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District Handbook 25-26 Final
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Dover-Sherborn Public Schools

District Handbook

2025-2026

 

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Revised 9.9.25

Table of Contents

(Click on the links below to take you directly to a specific section)

  1. Introduction
  1. Welcome Letter
  2. District Overview

  1. Academic Calendar and Important Dates
  1. District Calendar
  2. Important Dates

  1. Academic Programs
  1. Curriculum and Learning
  2. Program/Department Links

  1. Student Enrollment and Attendance:
  1. Enrollment Procedures
  2. Attendance and Tardy Policies
  3. Homeschooling Information

  1. Behavioral Expectations
  1. Code of Conduct
  2. Bullying and Title IX Policies

  1. Health and Safety
  1. Health Services
  2. Safety Measures

  1. Special Education and Support Services
  1. Special Education
  2. Student Support Services

  1. Family and Community Involvement
  1. Family Engagement
  2. Communication Guidelines
  3. Arrival/Dismissal Process
  4. Translation Services and Supports
  5. Community Resources

  1. Transportation, Parking and Facility Use
  1. Transportation Services
  2. Bus Behavior Expectations
  3. Student and Family Parking

  1. Policies, Legal and Administrative Information
  1. School Board Policies
  2. Non-Discrimination Policies
  3. Grievance Procedures
  4. Student Records

  1. Helpful Resources and Links
  1. All Links
  2. General FAQs

  1. Introduction

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Dear Families,

Welcome to a new school year!  Whether your child is joining us at the elementary, middle or high school level at Dover-Sherborn Public Schools, we’re excited to partner with you in supporting your child’s growth, learning, and success.

Our schools are proud to be part of communities that value strong academics, social-emotional development, and a positive, inclusive learning environment. While each school has its own unique traditions and culture, we share a common goal: to create safe, supportive, and engaging spaces where every student can thrive.

This handbook is designed to be a helpful resource for students and families. Inside, you will find important information about school policies, procedures, and daily routines, as well as guidance on how to stay connected and involved in school life.  We encourage you to review it carefully and reach out with any questions along the way.

We’re looking forward to a year of learning, discovery, and connection and we’re so glad to have you with us on the journey.

Sincerely,

Dover-Sherborn Administration Team

Our Vision

We will distinguish ourselves through innovative teaching and learning experiences that inspire all students to pursue their individual passion for learning and excellence while we continue to be a nationally-recognized school system.

Our Mission

The Dover-Sherborn Public Schools share the mission to inspire, challenge, and support all students as they discover their full potential.

Our Core Values

School Information

a cartoon apple with the text "chickering elementary school" written in a circle

   

a cartoon tree with the text "pine hill" written above it

block letter DS middle school

block letter DS high school

29 Cross Street

Dover, MA 02030

508-785-0480

10 Pine Hill Lane

Sherborn, MA 01770

508-655-0630

155 Farm Street

Dover, MA 02030

508-785-0635

 9 Junction Street

Dover, MA 0203

508-785-1730

 School Hours: 7:50am-2:15pm

Early Release: 7:50am-11:15am

School Hours: 8:35am-3:10pm

Early Release: 8:35am- 12:10pm  

School Website Links

2) Academic Calendars and Important Dates

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Dover-Sherborn Public Schools maintain a District Calendar to help families plan for the year ahead. This calendar includes key dates such as the first and last days of school, early release days, vacation weeks, professional development days, and districtwide events.  Each school also maintains its own school-specific calendar with information tailored to its building based events, including school-based events, performances, meetings, and deadlines. We encourage families to check both calendars regularly, as they are updated throughout the year.  All calendars are linked below.

The district also recognizes the importance of religious and cultural observances. Key dates for major religious holidays are noted on the district calendar to help families plan and to ensure our school community is respectful and inclusive of all traditions.

25-26  Religious/Cultural Holiday Guidelines

3) Academic Programs

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The Dover-Sherborn Public Schools is committed to providing all students with the highest quality education which includes rigorous coursework, high standards, and the development of essential skills for students during their time in Dover-Sherborn and beyond.  Guiding our academic programming is the Dover-Sherborn Portrait of a Graduate, which focuses on students’ development of the following competencies:

In order to help students obtain the Portrait of a Graduate competencies, the District has developed 9 Best Practices that we believe create meaningful and relevant learning  experiences for all students.  

Curriculum information for the district is available on the district website and can be accessed through the following links:

Consistent with Massachusetts regulations, 603 CMR 26.05(1), the Dover-Sherborn Public Schools, through its curricula and materials, encourages respect for the human and civil rights of all individuals, regardless of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin or sexual orientation.  In accordance with district guidelines, families may request information from the building principal on available accommodations related to curriculum content.

Grade Reports

Report Cards are issued at the end of each semester, with an Interim Report issued in the middle of each semester.  These reports will be accessible via the parent/guardian portal. To access the login page of the portal, please go to the school home page and click on “Aspen Family Portal Login” located under “Quick Links”.

Title 1 Support

Dover-Sherborn Public Schools receives federal Title I funding to support student learning. Title I provides additional resources to low income students to help ensure that all children are able to meet challenging academic standards.  Families are important partners in this work and each year, the District offers informational meetings and/or individual appointments with families who are interested in learning more about Title I supports and services.  

Departments/Programs

Additional information, including department/program-specific resources, can be found through the links listed below:

4) Enrollment and Attendance Policies

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​​The following section outlines key policies that guide the operations and expectations of our school community. We encourage families to review this section carefully to ensure a clear understanding of the standards that support student success.

Enrolling Students in Dover-Public Public Schools

The Dover-Sherborn Public Schools welcome resident students and are committed to providing a high-quality, inclusive education for all. To enroll, families must provide proof of residency within the towns of Dover or Sherborn, along with required student records such as a birth certificate, health/immunization documentation, and prior academic records.

Enrollment is open to all students in grades PreK–12, consistent with district policy and Massachusetts state law. Student placement is determined by school administration, based on grade level, educational needs, and available programs. Families are encouraged to stay informed and engaged from the start, as strong home–school partnerships help ensure each student is placed in the setting that best supports their success.

Enrollment paperwork for each building can be found at the links below:

Attendance Policies

The legal standard interprets “reasonable absences” as no more than seven full school days, or fourteen half-days, within a six-month period (see MGL Chapter 76, Section 2). A minimum of one hundred and eighty days of student school attendance is called for each year.  Accommodations may be made for reasons related to health, religion, emergencies, disabilities and special education.

Parents/guardians and school administrators have an obligation to be sure that students are in attendance each day.  The school will be monitoring attendance and sending out letters when students’ unexcused absences/tardies are of concern. If a student under the age of 16 is absent (unexcused) for 8 or more days, school officials may file a CRA (Child Requiring Assistance) petition which could result in a hearing before a Juvenile Court Judge.

Vacations during school time should be avoided and are not considered excused absences. For absences due to non-school related events (including family vacations), the student/family possesses the sole responsibility to obtain the information needed to maintain appropriate performance in school. Teachers have no obligation to prepare material that the student will miss during their absence prior to the student’s departure.

An Excused Absence/Tardy includes:

An Unexcused Absence/Tardy is any absence or tardy that is not covered by the aforementioned definition of “Excused Absence/Tardy.” Examples of an unexcused absence may include, but may not be limited to:

Attendance Supports

If a student is experiencing attendance difficulties due to chronic illness, mental health struggles, or financial hardship, the school can partner with families to provide support such as:

Make-Up Work

For absences due to non-school related events (including family vacations) the student possesses the sole responsibility to obtain the information needed to maintain appropriate performance in school. Teachers have no obligation to prepare material that the student will miss during their absence prior to the student’s departure. Students are encouraged to follow Google classroom or contact a peer to keep abreast of what is happening in each class.

Region Athletics/Extracurricular Attendance Requirements

It is important to note that when a student is absent due to an unexcused absence, they will not be allowed to practice or represent Dover-Sherborn in a school sponsored activity (i.e. sports events, drama/musical productions, dances, math meets, etc.) as a participant or spectator on that day. To be considered present, for participation/spectator purposes, a student must arrive by 9:30 am (the start of period 2) and stay until the close of the school day.  Students needing to arrive after 9:30 am can request administrative approval and/or will need supportive documentation (medical note, etc.) before participating or being a spectator in a school sponsored activity that day.

If a student is absent on a Friday, due to an unexcused absence, they cannot represent Dover-Sherborn on Saturday or Sunday without the written permission of a doctor and/or school administration. If a student reports after 9:30am or is out on a Friday and they do not have supportive documentation they must obtain administrative approval in order to participate in extracurricular activities.

Students Enrolled in Non-School Programs by Parent/Guardian Choice

Students attending events or enrolling in programs (i.e. ski school, theater, equestrian event) that take them from school for two weeks or more will be required to withdraw from the Dover-Sherborn Public Schools. Students who are returning to the District within the same school year are advised to follow the curriculum to the best of their ability.  Students will not have access to curricula and academic materials, such as Google Classroom, for the duration of this alternative setting.  If the student will have formal classes and instruction, the student will enroll there. If the student is going to be accessing a less formal academic program, a Home School plan needs to be filed with the District. The following steps are recommended:

Grades for students whose parents/guardians elect an alternative, approved program will not be integrated with the grades from Dover-Sherborn High School and will be listed separately on the student’s high school transcript. Additionally, a Dover-Sherborn grade point average will not include grades for courses taken in these elected programs outside of Dover-Sherborn High School.

McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act

The McKinney-Vento Act ensures that students who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence have the same rights and access to a free, appropriate public education as their peers. This includes the right to enroll immediately in school, remain in their school of origin if it is in the student’s best interest, and receive transportation and support services.  If you believe your family may qualify, please contact the school office or our district’s Homeless Education Liaison (the Director of Student Services) for assistance.

Homeschooling

Families may choose homeschooling as an alternative to traditional public education. Each homeschool plan must be submitted for review, and parents/guardians are encouraged to contact the assistant superintendent for guidance and approval. The District provides resources and support to ensure compliance with Massachusetts state laws, which require local district approval of homeschool plans. While public school curricular and extracurricular offerings are robust, families who opt for homeschooling must develop and follow an approved independent instructional plan.

Withdrawal from Dover-Sherborn High School

Pursuant to M.G.L. ch. 76, §1, students who are of mandatory school age must attend school. When students who are not of mandatory school age withdraw from school, parents/guardians must authorize any student withdrawal by signing a completed “Withdrawal Form” and meeting with the building principal or designee prior to the withdrawal.

5) Behavioral Expectations/Code of Conduct

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Our behavioral expectations and code of conduct are grounded in the belief that every student deserves to learn in a safe, respectful, and caring environment.  These expectations are designed to promote equity by applying expectations fairly and consistently across all students.  We encourage responsible behavior, personal growth, and academic excellence while recognizing each student’s unique needs and experiences.  By upholding respect and dignity for all, we help build a school community where students feel seen, supported, and valued. Together, we create a climate of care that fosters both individual success and collective well-being. The Code of Conduct outlines the behavioral expectations for all students Pre-K through Grade 12 in Dover-Sherborn Public Schools.

Technology Policies

In today’s rapidly changing world, where students have increased access to digital tools and online information, it is essential to prioritize safe and respectful technology use. Our Responsible Use Policies are designed to guide students in making thoughtful choices, protect their privacy, and promote a secure and supportive digital learning environment. These expectations help ensure that technology is used in ways that enhance learning while maintaining safety, respect, and integrity.  Policy Information for the district is available on the district website and can be accessed through the following links:

Elementary Personal Device Expectations:

All personal electronic devices, for example, cell phones, or smart watches, are not to be used at school during the regular school day. If your child brings a device to school, it must be turned off and placed in their backpack for the duration of the school day.  Students who require devices for health, accessibility, or communication purposes may be granted an exception to this policy.

Middle School Personal Device Expectations

High School Personal Device Expectations

Elementary Lunch & Recess Rules

Consequences will be determined based on the nature, severity, and frequency of the behavior. While some incidents may result in a reminder or reflection, others—especially those that involve unsafe or disrespectful behavior—may lead to more serious disciplinary action.  School administration will use discretion and professional judgment when determining appropriate responses to behavior incidents. Possible consequences may include:

Bullying

Bullying and harassment violations are serious offenses that go against the values of respect, dignity, and care that our school community is built upon. These actions create harm and undermine the inclusive, supportive environment we strive to maintain for every student. When such behaviors occur, we follow deeper, well-defined processes to ensure a thorough investigation, appropriate response, and protections for those impacted. Our goal is not only to address the behavior but also to repair harm, restore safety, and uphold the rights of all individuals.  The definitions, forms, processes and frequently asked questions can be found below:

Title IX

Title IX is a federal law that ensures all students have equal access to school programs, activities, and athletics, regardless of sex. It also protects students from sexual harassment, assault, and gender-based discrimination.

If you or your child ever have a concern related to Title IX, please contact the school principal or the District’s Title IX Coordinator. The Coordinator makes sure concerns are taken seriously, investigated fairly, and that students are supported.

District Title IX Coordinator:
Kate McCarthy

Director or Student Services

508-785-0036

mccarthyk@doversherborn.org

Civil Rights Grievance Procedures (forthcoming)

6) Health and Safety

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Health Office

The Dover-Sherborn Public Schools are committed to fostering a healthy and safe learning environment for all students. Our Health Services team, led by compassionate and skilled school nurses, provides comprehensive care, administers first aid, manages chronic conditions, and promotes student wellness. The link below outlines essential procedures for illness, injury, medication administration, and maintaining overall student health:

Food Celebrations

To comply with the expectations outlined in Massachusetts General Law c 111 223 “An Act  Relative to School Nutrition,” foster student safety, and promote equitable student experiences in all classes, no food is allowed in classrooms other than students’ individual snacks and lunches. Please review the following expectations around food and celebrations:

Student Safety and Emergency Procedure Planning

The safety and well-being of every student, faculty member, and staff member is the highest priority at Dover-Sherborn Public Schools. We are committed to providing a secure and supportive learning environment where all individuals feel safe and can thrive. This section outlines our comprehensive approach to student safety and our established procedures for various emergencies.

At Dover-Sherborn Public Schools, safety is an ongoing commitment woven into our daily operations and long-term planning. We believe in:

7)  Special Education and Student Services

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At Dover-Sherborn Public Schools, we are committed to fostering an educational environment that is inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the unique needs of every learner.  Our mission is to ensure that all students, including those with disabilities, are supported in achieving their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.  Grounded in the core values of respect, collaboration, and high expectations, we believe that inclusive practices enrich the entire school community.  We strive to provide individualized support in the least restrictive environment, enabling students with disabilities to participate meaningfully in the general education setting to the greatest extent possible.

School Special Education Pages

8) Family Engagement

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We believe strong home-school communication is essential to student success and a positive school experience.  We value connecting with families in the way that feels most comfortable to them, whether that is by phone, email, written notes, or other agreed-upon methods. During the school day, staff may have limited availability to talk directly, as their priority is attending to students’ needs. However, all messages will be returned as soon as possible, and families are encouraged to reach out at any time.

Translation

If you need documents translated or would like to request a translator for a meeting, please contact your student's assistant principal.  Information sent out via Parentsquare is automatically translated based on the language the parent/guardian specified in Aspen. The District website includes a dropdown menu at the top to select your preferred language (Translation Services - Dover Sherborn District). Alternatively, families may utilize online platforms like Google Translate if they wish to translate something independently.

ParentSquare

Our primary communication tool is ParentSquare, a secure platform used for sharing important announcements, school updates, and classroom information.  We encourage all families to download the app and enable notifications to stay informed and engaged.  Please find further information regarding ParentSquare below:

GUIDELINES FOR COMMUNICATION

Productive, respectful communication between home and school plays a vital role in promoting student learning, growth, and well-being. As partners in education, families and educators share the responsibility of fostering clear, consistent, and compassionate communication.

These guidelines reflect Dover-Sherborn’s core values - Commitment to Community, Equity & Excellence, Respect & Dignity, and a Climate of Care - and aim to ensure that every interaction is respectful, productive, and student-centered. At all times, each party is committed to acting in the best interest of the student(s).

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS FOR EMAIL AND ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION

Email and other digital tools are powerful resources for clear and timely communication. This guidance applies to all members of the Dover-Sherborn community—students, families, and staff—and is designed to support respectful, effective interactions. At the core, all electronic communication should:

SPECIFIC GUIDELINES FOR EMAIL AND ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION

Please remember that emails are not private and fall under Public Records Law—they can be requested and shared publicly. When composing or sending emails:

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS FOR MEETINGS AND PHONE CONVERSATIONS

Whether held in person or over the phone, meetings are opportunities to build trust, solve problems, and strengthen the partnership between families and educators.

All conversations should:

In cases where conversations become emotionally charged, participants may request a pause or reschedule the meeting for a later time. Everyone benefits when communication remains grounded in mutual respect and the shared goal of supporting student success.

SPECIFIC GUIDELINES FOR MEETINGS AND PHONE CONVERSATIONS

Family Member Volunteers

There will be a variety of volunteer opportunities for parents/guardians/caregivers to support classroom activities, school events, and community-building efforts.  These opportunities will be shared at the beginning of the school year and throughout the year as needs arise.  The guidelines for any volunteer are outlined below:

•All volunteers must have successfully completed a Criminal Records background check (CORI)

•All volunteers must sign-in at the main office and obtain the appropriate colored “Visitor” badge for that day

•Volunteers are requested to keep all information regarding the students and staff in the school confidential

•Volunteers should use the adult bathrooms while at school. Please ask school personnel where the nearest adult bathroom is located

Please bring up any questions or concerns you have about volunteer issues with the faculty or staff with whom you are working.  If a question or concern still exists, please feel free to contact the principal.

Field Trip Information

Throughout the school year students may participate in field trips that enhance the curriculum. Classroom teachers will communicate with families in regard to the details and purpose of the field trip. A release form for local field trips along with a medical form will be sent home for families to complete and return to the classroom teacher. Should the cost of a field trip pose a financial hardship, please contact the principal who will make arrangements to cover costs.

Fundraising Information

Fundraising activities or requests for contributions must have prior approval of the principal. This policy applies to all classrooms, organizations, and groups within the community. At the principal’s discretion, a financial report may be required.

Gifts from Students and Families

Parents/guardians/caregivers and students wishing to express their appreciation to individual faculty and staff members may do so through a donation to the school library or the classroom.  Small hand-made gifts, cards, or notes from the student are also appropriate. Staff members may not accept a gift from an individual family valued at more than $50.00. Room parents/guardians/caregivers may organize group gifts for faculty and staff during the holiday season and at the end of the school year.

School Events

We look forward to welcoming families into our buildings for back-to-school nights and parent-teacher conferences.  These events provide valuable opportunities to connect with teachers, learn more about your child’s learning experience, and build strong partnerships between home and school.  Additional building based activities and performances are offered and will be detailed in the school websites and school calendar.  We’re grateful for your partnership and look forward to working together to support your child’s growth and success. 

Use of Pictures

Special events are frequently covered by the local press, including the taking of photographs of children. Parents/guardians will not be notified each time this occurs. Parents/guardians who wish their child to be excluded from publicity photos should indicate so on the student verification form.

Family Resources

The following links provide quick access to important family resources:

9) Transportation, Parking and Facility Use

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Transportation

The Dover-Sherborn Public Schools provide school bus transportation at no cost to all students. Our goal is to ensure safe and reliable transportation each day. Families who have questions about bus routes or transportation concerns may contact Tracey DeFlaminio at 508-785-0036 or by email at deflaminiot@doversherborn.org.

Dover-Sherborn Bus Behavioral Expectations:

The bus is an extension of the school day; all school rules are applicable to a student’s time on the bus. Below are examples of behavioral expectations while riding the bus:

Consequences will be determined based on the nature, severity, and frequency of the behavior. While some incidents may result in a warning and parent/guardian communication, others—especially those that compromise safety—may lead to immediate disciplinary action, including loss of bus privileges.  School administration will use discretion and professional judgment when determining appropriate responses to behavior incidents.  Possible consequences may include:

Facility Use

The Dover-Sherborn Public Schools welcome the responsible use of school facilities by community groups and organizations, when such use does not interfere with school operations or student programming. Any interested individual that would like to use the facilities after school hours should contact the main office administrative assistants to begin the process.

10) Policies and Legal Information

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The School Committee is responsible for establishing policies that guide the operation of the school district. These policies serve as the governing framework for decision-making and ensure consistency, equity, and legal compliance across all schools.  All policies are made publicly available, and transparency in the process helps ensure that the school district’s operations align with its mission, values, and community expectations.

Additional information, including full policy language and updates, can be found through the links listed below:

Student Records

Student records are maintained in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). These laws protect the confidentiality of student information and give parents/guardians (and students age 14 and older or in 9th grade and above) certain rights, including:

Temporary records (such as test results and evaluations) are kept for at least five years after a student leaves the district. Permanent records (basic information such as name, address, courses, grades, and attendance) are kept for at least sixty years.  If you would like to review your child’s records or have questions, please contact the school office.

11) Links and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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All Links

School Website Links

Calendars

Teaching and Learning

Departments

Title I Handbooks

Elem Title I Handbook 23-24

DSMS & DSHS Title 1 Handbook 23-24

Enrollment Links

Attendance Regulations

Code of Conduct and Policies

Family Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

This FAQ section is designed to provide helpful answers to common questions about our school district, programs, policies, and procedures. We recognize that new questions and situations arise over time, so this is a living document that will be updated regularly as new topics emerge. Our goal is to offer clear, accessible information to support students, families, and staff.